1) Types There are 2 types of washing machine: front loading and top loading. If you are considering a washing machine that is to be placed beneath your kitchen counter then front loading is the best choice, however if you are looking for a narrower machine then consider top loading. Compared to the front loaders the top loaders consume more power and water, however they usually have larger capacities.

2) Wash Load Capacities The wash load capacity determines the load the machine can handle for one single wash. It is advisable to use the machine to its full load capacity for optimum energy conservation. You'll find three categories as per the wash load capacity of a washing machine.

Machines with less than 5 kg are best suited for small families with 1 or 2 members.

Machines between 5 to 7 kg are best suited for families with about 3 to 5 members.

3) Spin Speeds The spin speed of a washing machine determines the speed at which the machine will spin the clothes to remove the water while washing and drying it. It is measured in revolutions per seconds (rpm). Most of washing machines only determine the maximum spin speed capability of the machine. A higher spin speed is expected for cotton clothes while a lower spin speed is suited for synthetics and delicate clothes. You need to check for the option to vary the spin speed so that the machine can be used with all sorts of clothing.

1000 to 1800 rpm is the higher speed required for cotton clothes.

400 to 800 rpm is the lower speed required for synthetic and delicate clothes.

5) Efficiency Efficiency is usually rated on a scale of A-G where A is the highest and G is the lowest. Thus a A rated machine will offer maximum efficiency compared to a G rated one which gives you the least.

Such ratings are presented for each washing machine on the basis of energy consumption, water consumption and drying capability. The best ones are usually the AAA rated ones which offer the highest efficiency for energy, washing and drying.

6) Wash Temperatures Different kinds of clothes are to be washed at different temperatures; for example silk and delicate clothes cannot be washed at high temperatures, while cotton clothes are cleaned better if set at a higher temperature. Thus it would be better if the washing machine comes with a few temperature settings that can be used for various types of clothes. Most of the washing machines provide at-least 3 to 4 wash temperatures e.g. 30°, 60°, 90° etc.

7) Water Supply Most machines are designed to accept cold water which is suitable for delicate clothes and fabrics and help in better stain removal. These machines are considered more energy efficient.

Some machines are intended to accept cold and hot water, thus two valves are to be connected to the machine; one for the cold water and other for the hot water. These machines are however less energy efficient.

8) Noise Level All the washing machines make some amount of noise. The amount of noise created by the machine is calculated in decibels (dB). Usually they are categorised as: Less than 40dB, 40-50dB, 50-60dB and more than 60dB of noise. Most of the washing machine in the market today fall in the 50-60dB category which is equivalent to the noise made by a doorbell.

You can get the washing machine which fulfills your needs by using the "Narrow Results" on the left column of this page.